Our reforms will ease pension hardships, Buhari assures

President Muhammadu Buhari Monday assured that his administration’s reforms will ensure that Nigerians who spent the productive years of their lives serving the nation will not experience difficulties in getting their pensions.

This was contained in a State House press statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu.

Speaking at a meeting with Barrister Sharon Ikeazor, the Executive Secretary, Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) at the State House, the President directed a speedy completion of the ongoing nationwide verification of pensioners.

President Buhari stressed that the exercise was necessary because the success of the administration’s goal of putting in place an efficient pension scheme hinged on the availability of a reliable database.

In a presentation to the President, Barrister Ikeazor said the PTAD management was determined to restore dignity to pensioners by protecting their funds and paying their entitlements promptly.

The Executive Secretary also said that in line with the anti-corruption posture of the current administration, the PTAD has put measures  in place to ensure accountability, compliance with regulations and zero-tolerance for corruption.

WE’LL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT THE PEACE PROCESS IN SOUTH SUDAN –BUHARI

In another State House development, President Buhari called for stronger commitment to the implementation of the peace process in South Sudan.

He assured that the Federal Government will remain steadfast in following up to ensure that the country regains stability.

Buhari receiving the Letter of Credence of the Ambassador of the Republic of South Sudan, Mr. Paul Malong Akaro, at the State House.

He said delay in implementing the peace accord had affected the development of the country in spite of the lofty potentials for growth.

‘‘I was a little disappointed with the subsequent developments in your country. 

“I was hoping that we can move forward and develop the great potentials of your country after the peace accord.

‘‘The African Union will continue to hold your leaders to account in implementing the peace process. 

“And the leaders should be able to accommodate one another for the good of your people,’’ the President said.

President Buhari told the ambassador that the peace process would be most effective when accepted and implemented by leaders from within the country, without external interventions.

In his remarks, Mr. Akaro said the government of national unity in South Sudan was still committed to the peace process in the country.

‘‘We know that the only way we can achieve stability and development is to implement the peace process. 

“We are grateful for your support,’’ he said.

The President also received the Letter of Credence of the Ambassador of Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic, Mr. Malainine Sadik-Bachir.

He said Nigeria will continue to support the country as it strives to realize its goals of development.

“You can be assured that Nigeria will remain steadfast in her support for Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic. 

“We will continue to do our best for you,’’ he said.

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